Walking on Walls – Rappelling in the Indian Western Ghats
Adventure Is Calling
You can’t walk on walls! Or can you?
Meet the Author!
Devleena Dash: A writer by profession, I play with words to make a living, to survive. And then, I turn to mountains and waterfalls to come alive. On most days you’ll find me trekking, hiking, and jumping into all kinds of water bodies I come across. I love adventure sports and try out new ones whenever I can. When I am not trekking, I explore the city on my longboard, hang out with my fam and friends, write poetries, letters, read and cook.
Guide At a Glance
- Is this author an Adventurer?
- Is this Guide based on experience?
- Price Range:
3/5
- Physical Difficulty:
2/5
- Time Required:
3/5
Your Next Quest
Rappelling is an adventure sport that lets you have the thrill of walking down vertical surfaces. Most of us have seen mountains and hills from atop. We have walked on edges but never dared to explore the edge, lest we fall and injure ourselves.
But the curiosity to explore all sides of a mountain still remains, and that’s where rappelling comes to play.
Rappelling is also a great survival skill. Rappelling helps you in situations like getting down a burning building in times of peril.
What you need to know before you go!
Rappelling is an adventure sport wherein an individual uses a harness and other safety equipment to descend a vertical or almost vertical surface. Rappelling is mainly done on mountains and hills and sometimes can be done on vertical walls.
Rappelling comes packed with adrenaline rush and thrill. Every mountain is different, and so is its surface, the obstacles, the view, and height. Every mountain or hill you go rappelling on is a whole new experience altogether.
Being one with nature is known to bring peace and stress relief. That is precisely what rappelling does to you. It also allows you to have a closer look at majestic mountains and beautiful waterfalls that you’ve only seen either from the bottom of the hill or the top of it. Rappelling allows you to be much closer to them.
People of all ages can enjoy rappelling. However, you need to realize that rappelling needs a lot of determination and dedication.
- Have good core and leg strength
- Have an agile body and good reflexes and balance.
- Have no health concerns or ailments
- Love the mountains
One of my favorite experiences of rappelling was with YMCA. YMCA organizes summer camps for kids and adults (14-18) at YMCA CAMPLAKESIDE in Nilshi. YMCA has a permanent camping site here, and your accommodation, food, transportation is taken care of by them. The stay here is five days long, and one of these days, YMCA takes you on a long night trek in Nilshi.
You spend the night atop the mountain. They provide Camps and sleeping bags. In the morning, you Rappel halfway down on one of the beautiful mountain ranges in Nilshi. They provide all the safety equipment. They also have expert personnel and guides to help you through the process. So if you are a beginner, don’t fret. Once you’ve rappelled down, you start descending the mountain on foot to the permanent campsite.
The whole cost of this camp, including everything mentioned, is INR 5000 ($70)
YMCA also organizes adventure sports, camps, and more throughout for other age groups throughout the year.
Teach me your ways!
Unless you’re a certified guide or experienced climber and mountaineer, do not attempt solo rappelling!
Rappelling is where most mountaineering accidents happen. A single mistake can result in a slip and a fatal fall.
Learn from a teacher. If you are determined to teach yourself, consider these references:
The fundamental elements of rappelling (or abseiling) are:
- Building SERENE anchors and rigging the rope
- Safely tying in (dress and stress!) and rappelling down the rope with a backup
- Cleaning the anchors and retrieving the rope
An enormous amount of technical expertise goes into this, including knot-tying, rope management, belay techniques, anchor building, emergency rescue and outdoor survival skills.
As a member of a guided rappelling group, you will receive instruction in how to safely abseil. Let your guide do their job!
You should know whether to expect dry or wet conditions. Rappelling often takes place around (or inside of) waterfalls, which will definitely soak you!
Need some inspiration?
Still undecided?
PROS
- It is a pretty thrilling activity. Adventure seekers would love the rush it brings.
- This activity equals to a full-body workout.
- Get to explore new places and climb new mountains.
- Lots of mountains and waterfalls have rappelling spots with experienced Rappelling teams
- Can be done indoors too. Many organizers have indoor rappelling on vertical walls.
- Rappelling can be cheap if you know the right places to go to.
CONS
- Usually needs a group of people to perform this activity else it becomes very dangerous.
- Danger from slippery rocks, fragile rocks or falling rocks.
- Can instill fear of heights in you!
- It can make you exhausted
- If you’re not extremely well experienced you can’t do it alone. You have to depend on other people.
Inspire
Where and When to Go?
Regions
Exploring the Indian Western Ghats is a privilege, no matter what you’re doing!
The Ghats are a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the eight hotspots of biological diversity in the world.
Nilshi
Nilshi
Nilshi is filled with several small hill ranges. Most of these hills have spots to rappel. The best way to experience Rappelling in Nilshi is through YMCA. YMCA’s Camp lakeside is situated right near the hill ranges. YMCA takes you for night treks and morning Rappelling through a 5-day camp. These camps take place in April and May (Summer), Winter (months may vary)
Dudhiware Waterfall Rappelling
At the height of 135ft, you can find magnificent views of valleys, waterfalls, and mountain ranges. Dudhiware waterfall near Lonavala is a popular Rappelling spot. Dudhiware waterfall gets its name from the white, gushing waters and is a treat to watch. Imagine Rappelling down it! It is popular in monsoon season, and you can very easily book a slot for Rappelling here.
Lonavala
A beautiful hill station between Mumbai and Pune is home to the majestic Sahyadri Ranges. Easily accessible through flights and cars, it’s a popular vacation spot. There are endless trekking spots and waterfalls here, and most of them are used as Rappelling spots too. The climate here stays cool and breezy all year round, making treks easier to bear and more fun.
Kasara Waterfall
Kasara waterfall is located in the Thane district and is a very thrilling spot for rappelling. The drop of the waterfall is 80ft, and throughout the descend, the water is gush over your body. Kasara is a quiet place and with less population. You can have a very peaceful trek here, both before and after the rappel.
Kundalika River Rappelling
Kundalika River rappelling is an ideal Rappelling spot because you can go river rafting in the white waters of the Kundalika River and walk to the nearby waterfall for rappelling. Both these activities can be done on the same day. The strong currents of the river and stronger winds make the rappelling a bit difficult but extremely thrilling and fulfilling.
Though these are a few of the most beautiful Rappelling spots, there are many many other spots. Some of these other spots are Bhivpuri waterfall, Karjat, Matheran, Dodhani Waterfalls, Khopoli, Sadhan valley, and Bhandadara.
These locations let you soak in the beauty of western ghats and let you get lost in the magic and lush of green that these ghats bring.
Essential Outdoor Skills
What outdoor and survival skills should I master before embarking?
If you are rappelling with a guide, you should come equipped with a basic knowledge of outdoor navigation, first aid, and trekking skills.
- Ability to endure trekking to get to the top of the hill or the Rappelling Spot.
- Ability to read the mountain textures, ridges, cracks to get down safely.
- Knowledge of First aid in case of bruises, sprains, cramps, injuries, and more.
- Navigation in the mountains if you want to explore new places.
- Camping and camping skills if it’s a longer trek.
If you are considering rappeling by yourself or without a guide, then this list of required skills becomes much longer!
Rappelling Etiquette
Now that you know of the dos and don’ts, you must follow a few etiquettes to rappel properly without hurting others.
- Try to rappel in a straight line, don’t go zig-zag, or you can get entangled in protruding tree branches or slip.
- Be careful of fellow people rappelling with you.
- If you’re not the one rappelling, do not talk. You could either be waiting for your turn at the top or waiting for others to finish at the bottom. Sound from any side can distract the person rappelling.
- Be respectful of beginners. If they are taking too much time, don’t get irritated. If they are panicking, help them out.
- If you are a beginner, there is no meaning getting nervous seeing experienced people. Believe in yourself, and don’t get distracted.
- Know your abilities and go rappelling in places that are suited according to your abilities. Trying to difficult spots when you’re not ready to can cause accidents.
- Make sure you do not litter the spots you go to in any way. Pick up after yourself and clean up the place before you leave for the day.
Numbers to remember
is the largest practical group size!
0
is the longest length of most rappell pitches.
0
ft
times you can afford to lose control. Pay attention!
0
Safety & Risk
Is this adventure for you?
Warning!
Spending time in the Great Outdoors can be hazardous. Inclement weather, broken gear, poor judgment, failing transportation, freak accidents, bad luck and Acts of God can befall you at any time. You participate in adventure at your own risk.
Rappelling is a sport of balance, flexibility, grip, strength, and promptness. One wrong move can prove injurious or fatal for you. Dangers include getting hit by rocks, colliding with other people near you, slipping, fractures, and more.
The best way to prevent these accidents is to gather all the knowledge you can about the destination. Be well prepared accordingly. Be extremely vigilant. Keep your eye on the rock, your leg, the belay, the rope, all together. You should be alert and looking at every piece of safety equipment properly, and listening to the instructions given by the guides.
- Trust the rope! Follow the instructions for your descender device - don't grab onto the rope in panic!
- Listen to the weather. Both rain and sun can bring their own dangers, from slick cliff faces and weakened ropes to heat exhaustion and dehydration.
- If you're scared, do the next right thing. The process is the same whether you're 20 or 200 feet up.
DO'S
- Go very slow. If you’re unsure, take your time.
- Look at everything around you, rocks, water, cracks, ropes, legs, everything. Make sure everything is alright and then take the next step. Repeat!
- Use excellent quality safety equipment. Ropes and anchors should be very sturdy.
- Know and PRACTICE the basics of self-rescue.
DONT'S!
- Do not panic. Stop and take deep breaths.
- Do not step on fragile rocks or rocks that are wobbly
- If two or three people are Rappelling together, be careful of their safety too. Do not come in their way.
- Don't leave long hair loose! It can get stuck in the descender device.
Wildlife
What animals can I expect to encounter?
The Western Ghats are a hotspot of biological diversity. Tigers, tahrs, elephants, pit vipers, hornbills, fly catchers, leopards and more!
The bulk of the animal kingdom is found the lower elevations of the hill country, where rainforest predominates. Diversity varies widely between the lush rainforests and the drier montane forests found higher up in the mountains.
Rappelling spots are filled with fantastic flora and fauna if you look closely. If you’re on a mountain, you’ll found beautiful birds, squirrels, mongooses, maybe even some snakes!
If you’re rappelling down a waterfall, you can find little fishes, pretty water flowers, dragonflies, and tiny frogs.
If you’re rappelling on a high cliffside, you might get to enjoy watching a bird fly and dive beneath you!
Fitness & Training
What is the recommended level of fitness?
Rappelling calls for the use of the whole body. You need solid core and leg strength to push yourself off the rock and land back again.
Training and preparation exercise regimen
Squats are your best friends if you want to train for rappelling. Do squat jumps 5 sets of 5 reps. Squats 3 sets of 12 rep for core strength.
You can train your legs with 10 minutes of intense running. Run. Take a short break. Repeat.
Swimming/Cycling for an hour is excellent to build cardiovascular strength and core strength. Cardiovascular health helps you take in and use more oxygen, and the core makes rappelling easier.
Dumbell Rows to focus on your back and arm strength that are extremely necessary for rappelling.
Gear Guide
What gear do I need for this trip?
Required Gear
- Climbing helmet
- Rappelling gloves
- Hiking clothes (not too loose!)
Primary Safety Equipment (usually provided by service)
- Rappelling Rope
- Harness
- Carabiners
- Belay/descender device
Supporting Gear
- Extra clothes
- Personal hygiene products
Accessories & Apps
Finances & Budget
What are the costs associated with this adventure?
Gear Cost
The cost of Rappelling gear is relatively cheap. You can easily get good-quality climbing shoes, helmets, and hiking gear from Amazon or adventure stores like Decathlon, REI.
Safety Equipment
Usually, people in India choose to go Rappelling through adventure and travel organizers. So, the cost of safety equipment is added to the organizers’ fees. But if you do want to buy safety equipment, you can do so from Decathlon or Add-venture. The safety equipment is a bit on the costlier side. But since quality is vital when participating in a dangerous sport, it’s better to be on the costlier side.
Food & Nutrition Cost
Since mountain tops are not likely to have any shops, it is advisable to carry your food. You can buy food from any supermarket or restaurant for cheap and bring it to the top. Make sure to take mostly dry snacks so that they don’t spill over your camping gear.
Accommodation Cost
Accommodation ranges from hostels to Villas to camps, choose your accommodation according to your budget, time at the top, and one preferably near the Rappelling location. If you want to camp near the site, you can carry your tent.
Transportation Cost
If you’re flying out from another country, the flight tickets cost according to that country. Living near the trek cuts the cost of traveling altogether. But reaching the base of most locations is easy. You can use an Uber or an Ola and get around for pretty reasonable prices.
Most of the Rappelling locations are free to climb and camp. If you’re trying to Rappel in protected areas, sanctuaries, or national parks, you need to pay a small fee.
Savings Tips
One of the best saving tips is participating in the sport through travel organizers and experts.
Insider Tips
Insider Tips
- Looking down while rappelling can make you panicky and give you cold feet. Always look at the rock your leg is on and the rock you will be landing on.
- Bending your knees and squatting gives you a better landing and descend on the rock.
- The more vertical you are, the dangerous and challenging it becomes to rappel. You’ll slip and bang straight into the wall or rock if you straighten up. Harnesses and ropes are protecting you, so loosen yourself up and move into a more horizontal position.
What does no one tell you?
The hardest part of rappelling is the start! Letting yourself lean backwards off the precipice into thin air and finding your first footing can be a challenge. But once you’ve started, the rest is easy!
FAQ
Yes, rappelling is for everyone. From little kids to middle-aged adults, everyone can enjoy rappelling. However, it is a dangerous sport, and hence you must be physically and mentally fit to go Rappelling. One little slip-up can prove fatal.
No, people of all ages can learn and do rappelling given that they are healthy in all aspects.
Make sure you use the washroom before you start ascending. But if you still feel like urinating or pooping, you can do so in a pit. Make a small pit in the mud, do your business there, and fill up the pit with mud and leaves to speed up the composting process. This helps to keep the area clean, makes sure no one steps on your poop and turns your poop and urine into compost before they start spreading diseases.
See Notes on transportation in the Finances & Budget section.
See notes in the “Where and When to Go?” section.
Yes, there are plenty of guides that teach you how to Rappel down mountains and waterfalls. Any Travel organizer you go to has expert personnel to give you ample safety and make your rappelling experience seamless and thrilling.
